The All-NBA Teams have been announced recently, and while there are some controversial selections, the All-Defensive Team stands out this year compared to previous seasons. Remarkably, the First Team includes four centers and a forward: Herb Jones, Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, Rudy Gobert, and, for the first time, a rookie, Victor Wembanyama.
NBA fans are left wondering, “Where are the point guards and other positions?” It seems the NBA is now focusing on recognizing the best defensive players regardless of their positions. These selections indicate that these are considered the top five defenders in the league today, regardless of position.
The Second Team also reflects this trend, featuring four guards and one forward: Alex Caruso, Jrue Holiday, Jalen Suggs, Derrick White, and Jaden McDaniels. This suggests that the NBA views these players as the sixth through tenth-best defenders in the league.
Interestingly, the All-League Teams do not follow this trend, maintaining traditional guard, forward, and center positions on each team. This deviation highlights the NBA’s evolving approach to awards, reminiscent of the sudden implementation of the play-in tournament just three years ago. The league isn’t afraid to innovate and make bold changes.